UAE sees heavy rains, waterlogged roads on first day of unstable weather
Weather watchThe UAE is expecting a week of unstable weather. The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) forecast rain moving across different areas of the country from Sunday to Friday. Showers will shift across the north, east, south, coastal, and inland regions, with rainfall amounts varying each day.UAE officials continue to stress that public safety remains the priority, and further updates will follow as the weather pattern develops.Khaleej Times is bringing live updates as conditions evolve, alongside official advisories from different government authorities.Avoid unnecessary travelResidents are advised to be careful, especially when visibility is low and roads have water build-up. The NCM and Abu Dhabi Police remind everyone to avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rain, use headlights properly, and stay away from wadis and flood-prone spots.Officials also warn that entering flowing valleys can lead to serious penalties, highlighting why it’s important to follow safety rules during bad weather.The forecastWondering if you will see a clear sky today? Here’s your weather report until Friday.MondayRainfall is forecast across the country during the day. At night, activity will focus on northern and eastern regions, including Al Ain.TuesdayRain will affect northern, eastern and southern regions during the day. By night, showers are expected over western and eastern areas, as well as coastal regions and islands.WednesdayScattered rainfall will continue across parts of the country during the day. At night, rain is expected over eastern regions and Al Ain, with chances decreasing later into the night.ThursdayA low chance of rain is forecast in the morning. Conditions are expected to develop in the afternoon over northern and eastern regions and Al Ain, before shifting to coastal areas, islands and western regions at night.FridayRain is expected across scattered areas during the day, beginning over islands and coastal regions before moving across most parts of the country.Do not to enter flood-prone wadisWant to enjoy the rains, sure enough; however, do not venture into flooded wadis. Entering valleys during heavy water flow is a serious traffic offence and carries a Dh2,000 fine, vehicle impoundment for 60 days, and 23 traffic black points. Officials have warned that such violations will be strictly enforced to prevent life-threatening incidents during flooding and flash flood conditions.Real-time glimpse of rains in UAEPictures are coming in from across the UAE, capturing the ongoing spell of unstable weather. From rain-washed roads and cloudy skies, visuals shared from different emirates reflect the shifting conditions across the country. Residents document showers, offering a real-time glimpse of the weather unfolding nationwide.Hearing thunder? UAE authorities clarifies soundsUAE residents have reported rolling thunder, loud sounds, and visible lightning since the early hours of Monday, with heavy rainfall affecting parts of the country. Authorities have since reassured the public that the sounds are linked to unstable weather in the UAE and normal activity during such conditions.The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) issued a clarification that the sounds heard were consistent with current weather conditions, including thunder, and stressed that such noises are “normal and expected” in these circumstances.Travel advisoryIf you are travelling and have plans to board a flight from Sharjah Airport, the authority advises all passengers to stay up to date on the latest flight information due to weather conditions that may affect some flight schedules.The airport authority advised passengers to contact their airlines directly to verify flight status before heading to the airport.Civic workers in action amid rainsWhile some residents may be enjoying the showers, others are knee-deep in work — quite literally.A civic worker was captured by Khaleej Times photojournalist, Shihab, braving rainfall to ensure smooth drainage in Al Nahda area, Sharjah. As showers intensified in parts of the city, teams swiftly moved in to clear clogged drains and restore water flow, helping to prevent waterlogging.A civic worker in Al Nahda, SharjahDelivery riders alertedSlippery roads and wet surfaces can be especially challenging for motorbike riders. Abu Dhabi Police have urged delivery motorcycle riders to suspend movement and delivery services during periods of unstable weather, citing safety concerns and an increased risk of accidents.Public safety alertDue to changing weather conditions, Abu Dhabi Police have advised motorists to adhere to the 100 km/h speed limit and exercise extra caution while driving on public roads. Reduced visibility and slippery surfaces may increase driving risks during this period.Authorities have urged all road users to remain vigilant, follow posted speed limits, and drive responsibly.Rain slows trafficRain on the roads, patience in the air, traffic has officially hit
Weather watch
The UAE is expecting a week of unstable weather. The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) forecast rain moving across different areas of the country from Sunday to Friday. Showers will shift across the north, east, south, coastal, and inland regions, with rainfall amounts varying each day.
UAE officials continue to stress that public safety remains the priority, and further updates will follow as the weather pattern develops.
Khaleej Times is bringing live updates as conditions evolve, alongside official advisories from different government authorities.


Avoid unnecessary travel
Residents are advised to be careful, especially when visibility is low and roads have water build-up. The NCM and Abu Dhabi Police remind everyone to avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rain, use headlights properly, and stay away from wadis and flood-prone spots.
Officials also warn that entering flowing valleys can lead to serious penalties, highlighting why it’s important to follow safety rules during bad weather.
The forecast
Wondering if you will see a clear sky today? Here’s your weather report until Friday.
Monday
Rainfall is forecast across the country during the day. At night, activity will focus on northern and eastern regions, including Al Ain.
Tuesday
Rain will affect northern, eastern and southern regions during the day. By night, showers are expected over western and eastern areas, as well as coastal regions and islands.
Wednesday
Scattered rainfall will continue across parts of the country during the day. At night, rain is expected over eastern regions and Al Ain, with chances decreasing later into the night.
Thursday
A low chance of rain is forecast in the morning. Conditions are expected to develop in the afternoon over northern and eastern regions and Al Ain, before shifting to coastal areas, islands and western regions at night.
Friday
Rain is expected across scattered areas during the day, beginning over islands and coastal regions before moving across most parts of the country.
Do not to enter flood-prone wadis
Want to enjoy the rains, sure enough; however, do not venture into flooded wadis. Entering valleys during heavy water flow is a serious traffic offence and carries a Dh2,000 fine, vehicle impoundment for 60 days, and 23 traffic black points. Officials have warned that such violations will be strictly enforced to prevent life-threatening incidents during flooding and flash flood conditions.
Real-time glimpse of rains in UAE
Pictures are coming in from across the UAE, capturing the ongoing spell of unstable weather. From rain-washed roads and cloudy skies, visuals shared from different emirates reflect the shifting conditions across the country. Residents document showers, offering a real-time glimpse of the weather unfolding nationwide.




Hearing thunder? UAE authorities clarifies sounds
UAE residents have reported rolling thunder, loud sounds, and visible lightning since the early hours of Monday, with heavy rainfall affecting parts of the country. Authorities have since reassured the public that the sounds are linked to unstable weather in the UAE and normal activity during such conditions.
The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) issued a clarification that the sounds heard were consistent with current weather conditions, including thunder, and stressed that such noises are “normal and expected” in these circumstances.
Travel advisory
If you are travelling and have plans to board a flight from Sharjah Airport, the authority advises all passengers to stay up to date on the latest flight information due to weather conditions that may affect some flight schedules.
The airport authority advised passengers to contact their airlines directly to verify flight status before heading to the airport.
Civic workers in action amid rains
While some residents may be enjoying the showers, others are knee-deep in work — quite literally.
A civic worker was captured by Khaleej Times photojournalist, Shihab, braving rainfall to ensure smooth drainage in Al Nahda area, Sharjah. As showers intensified in parts of the city, teams swiftly moved in to clear clogged drains and restore water flow, helping to prevent waterlogging. A civic worker in Al Nahda, Sharjah



Delivery riders alerted
Slippery roads and wet surfaces can be especially challenging for motorbike riders. Abu Dhabi Police have urged delivery motorcycle riders to suspend movement and delivery services during periods of unstable weather, citing safety concerns and an increased risk of accidents.

Public safety alert
Due to changing weather conditions, Abu Dhabi Police have advised motorists to adhere to the 100 km/h speed limit and exercise extra caution while driving on public roads. Reduced visibility and slippery surfaces may increase driving risks during this period.
Authorities have urged all road users to remain vigilant, follow posted speed limits, and drive responsibly.
Rain slows traffic
Rain on the roads, patience in the air, traffic has officially hit the slow lane. Heavy showers slowed down traffic, with wet roads and reduced visibility affecting daily commutes. Motorists are experiencing heavier congestion as drivers reduce speeds and exercise extra caution on slippery surfaces.
Authorities have urged road users to stay alert, maintain safe distances, and avoid sudden braking during rainfall. While showers bring welcome relief, they also require heightened road awareness to ensure safety for all commuters.


Delivery platforms take precautions
As rain continues to affect parts of the UAE, delivery platforms are adjusting operations to prioritise rider safety and manage service delays.
Talabat informed customers that with rainy conditions in effect, riders are taking extra precautions on the road. As a result, some orders may experience longer delivery times while safety remains the top priority.
Similarly, Noon acknowledged that adverse weather conditions could impact fulfilment timelines, advising customers to expect possible delays in deliveries.
Careem also said, "Deliveries are slower to keep Captains safe."
Customers are advised to expect delays and plan orders accordingly.
Sounds heard are of thunder: Authorities clarify
In light of the current weather conditions affecting the country, Dubai Police along with Sharjah Media Office and Ras Al Khaimah Media Office have reassured residents that the sounds accompanying the weather, like thunder, are normal.
Authorities said that in the event of any real threat, official warnings and instructions will be issued immediately through the national early warning system to ensure public safety.
Residents have been urged to rely only on official sources for information and to avoid spreading rumours, helping ensure clarity and calm during changing weather conditions.
Safety measures during hail
When the weather turns unpredictable, a little extra caution goes a long way.
The UAE's Ministry of Interior (MOI has issued a safety advisory in light of hail and unstable weather conditions across the country.
Stay at home and go out only when necessary.
Cover cars and outdoor belongings to protect them.
Follow speed limits and maintain a safe distance between vehicles.
If you are outside, move immediately to a safe, enclosed place.
If you are driving, park in a safe location and remain inside your vehicle.
Follow weather warnings and updates from official authorities.
Tips for stable electricity supply during rain
With the rain pouring down, a few simple precautions can go a long way in keeping your home safe and systems running smoothly.
Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (Dewa) has issued five safety tips to help residents maintain a stable, secure electricity supply during periods of rain and extreme weather.
Check exposed connections and secure them using waterproof sockets and fixtures.
Verify that all connections are properly earthed in the electrical panel or distribution board.
Securely close all electrical cabinets located at the entrance of the house.
Replace any damaged meter windows, found in the utility room or near villa entrances.
Seal all spare conduits located on the building’s roof
Sharjah ready to tackle rain-related issues
Sharjah City Municipality is ready to handle all weather-related issues across the city. Various teams have activated plans to ensure quick response and smooth operations during adverse weather.
A total of 1,200 staff, including engineers, technicians, and support teams, have been deployed. The municipality has also mobilised 180 tankers, 140 high-capacity pumps, six advanced dam vehicles, and 20 recovery machines to support drainage and road operations.
In addition, 67 water collection ponds have been prepared to manage rainwater accumulation efficiently. The municipality has also activated its call centre (993) to receive and respond to public reports promptly, ensuring fast action on ground issues.




Parks closed in Sharjah
Even the swings need a weather break sometimes.
Sharjah Municipality announced the temporary closure of all parks in Sharjah City due to unstable weather conditions. The decision will remain in place until conditions stabilise. A resident run in the rain in Sharjah
Medical fitness centres closed
Sharjah Municipality has announced the closure of all its medical fitness centres across Sharjah City due to unstable weather conditions. The closure will remain in effect until further notice.
Authorities have advised residents to follow official updates for reopening schedules, prioritising safety as weather conditions continue to fluctuate.
Ajman closes all parks
Rethink your park visit today — after Sharjah, Ajman has also followed suit.
Ajman Municipality announced temporary closure of all parks across the city in light of the prevailing weather conditions. The facilities will remain closed until weather conditions stabilise.
Rain-soaked Dubai
The community lakes at Springs and Meadows were full to the brim, their waters mirroring the heavy, overcast sky above. A quiet stillness hung in the air, the kind that only comes when the rain takes over, and the usual city buzz slows down, said Khaleej Times reporter Nandini Sircar.
A resident of Al Furjan said that after the rain, a thin layer of water had gathered just outside his villa, making the driveway a little tricky to navigate. “It’s nothing serious, just a bit of waterlogging,” added Priyadarshee Panigrahi Al Furjan Springs and Meadows

Five killed in Oman
Oman is also dealing with incessant rainfall. Amid the ongoing weather situation, authorities have also confirmed another fatality linked to flooding and heavy rains.
At least five people have died in Oman over the past 24 hours after vehicles were swept away by floodwaters, authorities said on Monday.
Oman's Civil Defence and Ambulance Authority said seven people were rescued after a vehicle carrying 10 people was swept away in a wadi in the Wilayat of Barka, while the other three were later found dead. Oman Civil Defence


Slow-moving traffic due to rain
As weather conditions remain unsettled, traffic is expected to move slower than usual across key routes. Authorities have urged road users to stay alert, maintain safe distances, and avoid sudden braking during rainfall.
Red, orange weather alerts in Saudi Arabia
Inclement weather is impacting parts of the region, with authorities issuing multiple alerts across Saudi Arabia. The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) has warned of varying conditions on Monday, ranging from light to heavy rainfall.
The authorities have issued red and orange alerts across various regions, along with hail warnings in several areas. These conditions are expected to bring heavy rain, strong winds, near-zero to zero visibility, hail, thunderstorms, and a high risk of flash floods.
Flooded wadis
A raging torrent has been reported in the wadis of the Siji area in the Eastern Region, highlighting the intensity of the ongoing weather conditions in parts of the UAE.
Wadis can appear calm on the surface, but they can quickly turn into fast-moving flood channels during rainfall. Even a small amount of water flow can escalate rapidly, creating powerful currents that are difficult to escape.
Watch the video below:
الامارات : الان جريان جارف للاودية في السيجي بالمنطقة الشرقية#أخبار_الإمارات #منخفض_العزم #مركز_العاصفة
23/03/2026 pic.twitter.com/cZq3d0iXJa— مركز العاصفة (@Storm_centre) March 23, 2026
Authorities consistently warn residents to avoid entering wadis during unstable weather, as conditions can change within minutes and pose serious life-threatening risks. Safety guidelines are clear — stay away from flood-prone valleys, follow official advisories, and never attempt to cross flowing water.
Waterlogged streets after rain
Waterlogged streets across parts of the city have turned routine drives into slow, cautious journeys.
Cars are easing through pooled rainwater, with drivers staying extra alert through slippery patches. Even familiar roads feel different when they are waterlogged, and every move on the wheel needs a bit more patience than usual. Flooded road in Sharjah 


Emergency numbers in UAE
In case of an emergency, residents are reminded to contact the relevant authorities for immediate support and assistance. Keep the following numbers handy.
Waves of rain expected until March 27
Residents across the UAE experienced heavy rainfall on Monday, with the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) warning that unstable weather conditions will continue in waves until March 27.
Speaking to Khaleej Times's Haneen Dajani, NCM weather expert Dr Ahmad Habib said that the UAE will experience successive waves of cloud activity over the coming days:
March 24 (Tuesday): A second wave expected, following a similar pattern starting from western regions and moving inland and north
March 25 (Wednesday): Rain likely to concentrate more over northern and eastern areas, including Al Ain and coastal regions
Late March 26 to March 27: A final wave expected overnight, gradually clearing by March 27
Moving weather system
According to weather expert, the UAE weather system has gradually moved east and northwards throughout the day. Dr Ahmad Habib said,
Rain extended from Al Dhafra towards Abu Dhabi city and Al Ain
Showers began in Dubai (Jebel Ali and Al Barsha) and are continuing to spread
Eastern and northern regions, including Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah, are expected to see increased activity by evening
He warned that mountainous and valley areas (wadis) in the eastern regions could be particularly vulnerable. Heavy rain in Sharjah.

Why is this weather happening?
Wondering why the weather has turned unstable? Khaleej Times' reporter Haneen Dajani has the answer.
The current unstable weather conditions across the region are driven by a combination of atmospheric factors. According to weather expert:
A low-pressure system over the Middle East and northern Red Sea is generating cloud formation
At the surface level, moist air from the Arabian Sea is feeding the system
This combination is creating convective clouds, leading to periods of heavy rainfall, thunder, and possible hail
Distance learning in Oman
The Ministry of Education in Oman has announced a temporary shift to distance learning due to the impact of a weather depression affecting several governorates.
From Tuesday, March 24, to Thursday, March 26, all public and private schools, universities, and colleges in affected governorates will switch to e-learning. The decision excludes Dhofar and Al Batinah.
The move aims to ensure the safety of students and staff while maintaining continuity of education through digital platforms.
Guidelines to keep residents stay safe
When the weather changes, a few simple steps can really help. Dubai Municipality has shared some guidelines to help residents stay safe during these changing conditions.
Ensure all electrical connections inside homes or buildings are properly secured and insulated.
Clean internal rainwater drains regularly.
Use designated rainwater drains to dispose of accumulated water.
Avoid opening or using sewage manholes for rainwater drainage.
Secure outdoor furniture inside homes or buildings.
Remove tools, equipment, and loose materials from balconies or rooftops.
Stay away from trees, unstable signboards, temporary fences, and construction sites.
Avoid walking through areas with water accumulation.
Report waterlogging or fallen trees by calling 800900 or via WhatsApp.
Road closure in Umm Al Quwain
Motorists, plan journeys in advance as Umm Al Quwain authorities have announced temporary road closures due to heavy rainfall. These closures will affect key exits, including exits 93 and 96 on Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, as well as the exit leading to the Choueifat School on Sheikh Zayed Road (Falaj Al Mualla Road).
Motorists are being advised to take alternative routes and drive with extra caution as weather conditions continue to impact visibility and road safety.
Fast-flowing water rushing down the mountains
The UAE MET department has shared striking visuals of fast-flowing water rushing down the mountains in Dibba Al Fujairah, reflecting the intensity of the recent weather conditions in the region.
The powerful streams, formed by continuous rainfall, cascade through the mountainous terrain, turning dry channels into dynamic waterways. The scene highlights both the beauty and force of nature during active weather systems.
As beautiful as they may appear, you must avoid these raging water flows. #أمطار_الخير #دبا_الفجيرة #المركز_الوطني_للأرصاد #أصدقاء_المركز_الوطني_للأرصاد #حالة_الطقس #حالة_جوية #هواة_الطقس #reel #دبي #الإمارات_العربية_المتحدة #أبوظبي #الشارقة #رأس_الخيمة #الفجيرة #عجمان #أم_القيوين pic.twitter.com/gw36RcmW4m— المركز الوطني للأرصاد (@ncmuae) March 23, 2026
Emirates travel alert
Flying out of Dubai? You may want to leave a little earlier than usual.
Emirates has issued a travel advisory for customers departing from Dubai between March 23 and 27, 2026, urging them to factor in potential delays caused by adverse weather conditions. Reduced visibility and challenging driving conditions could impact travel time to Dubai International Airport (DXB).
The airline has strongly advised passengers to drive cautiously and arrive at the airport at least two hours before their scheduled flight. Travellers are also urged to check their flight status in advance, review the latest updates on emirates.com, and monitor their email for any changes or cancellations.
With weather conditions still unsettled, planning ahead can help avoid last-minute stress.
Workers' safety during unstable weather urged
The UAE has called on private sector establishments across all Emirates to enhance safety measures at worksites in light of expected weather conditions.
Employers have been urged to implement necessary preventive measures to ensure workers' safety during duty hours and while commuting to and from work.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation emphasised that worker safety remains a top priority, noting that compliance with occupational health and safety standards is a shared responsibility essential for maintaining business continuity within a safe working environment. Heavy rain lashes Sharjah on Monday, as unstable weather sweeps across parts of the UAE 
Abu Dhabi closes beaches, parks
Take a break — at home — and don't go to the parks and beaches today.
Due to anticipated weather fluctuations, Abu Dhabi City Municipality has announced the temporary closure of all parks, recreational facilities, and beaches across the city. All events have also been suspended until further notice.
The decision has been taken as a precautionary measure to ensure public safety amid unstable weather conditions expected in the coming days.
Authorities reiterated that safety remains the top priority, and residents are advised to follow official updates and adhere to all guidelines until conditions stabilise.
Flydubai travel advisory
Flydubai on Monday advised travellers to allow extra time for their journey due to inclement weather, as reported by Khaleej Times' Waheed Abbas.
“Adverse weather is forecast in the UAE starting today and over the coming few days. This may affect our operations at Dubai International (DXB) and your journey to and from the airport. Please stay safe and allow extra time for your journey,” the Dubai-based carrier said in a statement.
It also advised passengers to check their flight status before heading to the airport, not to travel unless they have confirmed bookings, to check their baggage allowance before starting the journey, and to arrive at the airport at least 4 hours before departure.
It reminded passengers that check-in closes an hour before departure.
Advisory for air passengers
Following advisories from Emirates and Flydubai, Sharjah-based Air Arabia also issued a passenger advisory, noting that unstable weather may affect travel plans.
“Adverse weather is forecast across the UAE starting today and over the coming days. This may affect our operations at Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al Khaimah airports,” the budget carrier said in a statement.
It also advised passengers to allow extra time for their journey and to check their flight status before heading to the airport.
DXB issues travel alert
Travelling through Dubai over the coming days may require a bit of extra planning as adverse weather conditions are expected between March 23 and 27.
Passengers are advised to allow additional time when heading to Dubai International Airport (DXB) or Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), as weather conditions may impact road visibility and driving conditions.
Travellers are told to check their flight status directly with their airline before leaving for the airport to avoid any last-minute disruptions.
Free public parking in Sharjah
Sharjah announced free public parking for Monday amid unstable weather conditions and to facilitate smoother movement for residents and visitors.
The temporary exemption applies to all public parking areas in Sharjah, including zones that are normally chargeable throughout the week and on official holidays, as indicated by blue informational signs.
Authorities noted that the resumption of paid parking will be communicated in line with evolving weather developments.
Road closure in Sharjah
Sharjah Police announced a temporary closure of Al Azwa Street (Suhaila) in Al Dhaid City due to heavy rainfall and heavy flow of Suhaila wadis.
The closure affects traffic coming from Ras Al Khaimah towards Al Manama, as well as routes from Al Dhaid City towards Masafi. The decision has been taken as a precautionary measure to ensure public safety amid unstable weather conditions.
Authorities have urged motorists to exercise caution, remain vigilant, and use alternative routes until further notice. Drivers are also strongly advised to avoid approaching wadis and dam areas where water levels are currently flowing.
Rain-related traffic violations
As rainfall continues across the region, authorities are reminding the public of key safety violations and penalties to ensure responsible behaviour during adverse weather conditions.
Gathering near valleys (wadis), flood zones or dams during rainfall.
Fine: Dh1,000
Traffic points: 6
Vehicle impoundment:-
Entering flooded valleys regardless of water level or degree of danger.
Fine: Dh2,000
Traffic points: 23
Vehicle impoundment: 60 days
Obstructing relevant authorities in managing traffic or emergency, rescue and ambulance operations during crises, disasters, rainfall or flooding.
Fine: Dh1,000
Traffic points: 4
Vehicle impoundment: 60 days
Waterpark closed in Dubai
As rain continues across the city, some outdoor attractions are taking a short pause.
Dubai's popular waterpark, Aquaventure announced that due to current weather conditions, all outdoor experiences, including Aquaventure Waterpark and Marine Animal Experiences, will remain closed for today. However, the Lost World Aquarium will stay open for visitors. Guests who have already purchased tickets for Monday can use them on any other available day. Kids enjoying the weather in sharjah
Parks closed in Al Ain
Al Ain City Municipality has issued a weather alert, announcing temporary closures of key public outdoor spaces to prioritise public safety.
Green Mubazzarah has been temporarily closed until further notice. The municipality confirmed that the site will reopen once weather conditions improve and it is safe for public access.
In a separate update, all parks, recreational areas, and playgrounds across Al Ain have also been temporarily closed as a precautionary measure. Authorities noted that these facilities will resume operations once weather conditions stabilise.
Wadi overflows in Al Ain
As heavy rains poured across parts of the UAE, gushing wadis came to life nestled amidst the country's mountains and other areas. In Al Ain, Wadi Hanif was seen flowing heavily as children observed the sight.
Watch the video by Storm Centre here: الامارات : جريان أودية حفيت في مدينة العين لثالث مرة خلال تأثير المنخفض الجوي#أخبار_الإمارات #منخفض_العزم #مركز_العاصفة
23/03/2026 pic.twitter.com/lSPVP2UIlQ— مركز العاصفة (@Storm_centre) March 23, 2026
Remote work for Sharjah govt employees
The Sharjah government has announced remote work for government employees until Thursday, March 26, amid the ongoing unstable weather.
Sharjah Human Resources Department has authorised heads, directors general, and managers of government departments, bodies, and institutions across the emirate to implement the “work from distance” system as needed.
However, the authority clarified that the directive excludes vital jobs that require employees' physical presence at their workplaces.
Shelters set up in Oman
Meanwhile in Oman, which has also seen the impact of the regional weather shift, authorities have set up shelters in case of adverse weather events.
The relief and shelter sector announced that designated centers had reached 161 across governorates of Oman, which included 53 equipped centers. One precautionary center was activated at Al-Ghaythranah Basic Education School in the Wilayat of Adam in the Al-Dakhiliyah Governorate, where 13 families were sheltered, totaling 106 individuals.
RTA monitors road conditions
As heavy rains hit parts of the country on a Monday, when most residents head out to work and roads get busy after the weekend, the RTA announced it is ensuring smooth traffic flow in Dubai.
The authority stated its Joint Weather Operations Room is currently monitoring the situation to ensure safety of all road users and maintain smooth traffic flow across the emirate. 
Teams deployed on ground
To deal with the aftermath of the heavy rains, the RTA has deployed its teams across Dubai to operate on the ground and manage traffic flow.
These teams have been working in areas where there is water accumulation, while providing real-time alerts to drivers, ensuring the safety of all road users and their smooth, safe arrival at their destinations.




3 dead in Oman wadi incident
The heavy rains have led to a tragic incident in Oman's Barka Governorate, where a vehicle carrying 10 people swept away in a wadi stream.
The incident led to the death of three people and the rescue of seven others after efforts by authority's teams, relevant entities and citizens. بالفيديو | حادثة انجراف مركبة تقل 10 أشخاص في مجرى وادٍ بولاية #بركاء، انتهت بإنقاذ 7 أشخاص، والعثور على 3 آخرين وقد فارقوا الحياة، بعد جهود متواصلة من فرق الهيئة والجهات المختصة والمواطنين. pic.twitter.com/kCeUv7O29B— الدفاع المدني والإسعاف - عُمان (@CDAA_OMAN) March 23, 2026
Dubai deploys personnel, vehicles
Dubai came well prepared this time as the city's municipality deployed qualified personnel and vehicles to ensure movement and safety amid unstable weather conditions.
The authority announced it was responding to rainy conditions affecting the emirate through proactive plans and an integrated operational system.
Among the vehicles and equipment, 220 tankers, 313 pumps, 168 vehicles and four-wheel drive vehicles and 290 heavy vehicles have been deployed.
Meanwhile, in regards to human resources, 653 employees, which includes engineers, administrative, and supervisory staff, 3,004 supervisors and workers have been working behind the scenes and on ground to manage the situation. 
Sun makes an appearance
Peekaboo!
The Sun made an appearance through the clouds, giving residents a break from the gloomy overcast and heavy rains in parts of the country during the evening hours of Monday.
With more rains expected this week, the sunshine has given residents a chance to head out of the house, enjoy a cup of tea and take in the chilly breeze that has accompanied the rainfall. Sunny sky in JVC Sunlight on buildings in Abu Hail

Child dies in Oman
A seven-year-old child drowned in a water pond in Oman's Barkaa Governorate in a tragic incident amid the heavy rains.
The search and rescue sector revealed the child was found in the pool and transferred to a hospital where he was pronounced dead.
Burj Khalifa covered by clouds
In a rare moment, Dubai's north star — the Burj Khalifa — was covered with clouds as the country witnessed unstable weather of varying degrees.
Taking to social media, the Dubai Media Office shared images of the breathtaking sight, as netizens joined in the comments to share their own special picture of the day. 


Overflowing wadis obstruct roads
In some areas of the UAE, overflowing wadis led to roads being obstructed and vehicles getting stuck.
Sharing visuals from Fujairah, a clip from Storm Centre shows a truck stuck in Wadi Al-Tuyayyin amid heavy rains.
Meanwhile in Ras Al Khaimah, the overflow of waadis Shaam and Al Jir led to flooded streets in the city.
Other videos showed the waadis of Al Tuyayyin, Koob, and Haqeel overflowing across the emirate, known for its mountains and gushing valleys.
Red alert in Riyadh
As the region experiences unstable weather, Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Interior issued a red alert in Riyadh for heavy rains in parts of Riyadh.
Residents have been advised to stay away from pooled water, valleys, and dams.
RAK suspends public transport service
Ras Al Khaimah announced the temporary suspension of internal and intercity public transport services due to the prevailing weather conditions, in order to ensure public safety.
Farmers given safety guidelines
The UAE's Ministry of Climate Change and Environment urged farmers and livestock owners to follow safety guidelines to protect both people and property during changing weather conditions. These include:
Keep away from electrical equipment, wires and submersible pumps.
Relocate electrical equipment and disconnect power from anything at risk of flooding.
Move livestock and poultry to higher, dry and covered areas.
Inspect feed and discard anything that is wet to prevent diseases.
Avoid standing water which may be polluted or hide electrical hazards.
Sharjah street reopens
Sharjah Police announced the reopening of Al Awza Street (Suhaila) in the city of Al Dhayd in both directions. The street had been temporarily closed due to heavy rainfall and the flow of watercourses
The authority urged the public to exercise caution and vigilance during the rainy weather and to avoid approaching areas where valleys and dams are flowing, in order to preserve public safety.
Abu Dhabi speed limits back to normal
The speed limits on the external roads of Abu Dhabi have returned back to normal, the emirate's police announced, after the authority had reduced them earlier in the day due to heavy rains.
Heavy rain forecast in Oman
Oman's meteorological department predicted heavy rains in its forecast for Tuesday, March 24.
Showers are expected until tomorrow morning, accompanied by hailstones and active descending winds due to the influence of clouds associated with the weather condition.
Rainy conditions are expected to start gradually in the governorates of Al Buraimi, Al Dhahirah, North Al Batinah, and Musandam, with its effects extending gradually during tomorrow's daytime to include the areas of Al Dakhiliyah, South Al Batinah, Muscat, North Al Sharqiyah, South Al Sharqiyah, and Al Wusta.
Remote work for Ajman govt employees
Ajman has announced remote work for government employees across the emirate, calling on all government entities to utilise the approved remote work system during the ongoing weather conditions.
The emirate's Human Resources department also urged companies to provide the necessary flexibility for employees to ensure business continuity, efficiency in service delivery, and the safety of human resources.
Stay tuned to Khaleej Times
As heavy rains hit parts of the UAE on March 23, life across the country witnessed a shift — roads were waterlogged, free parking was announced in Sharjah and government employees in some emirates were permitted to work from home.
Delivery companies put their riders' safety first as services were delayed and cities like Abu Dhabi urged drives to suspend their services to avoid any incidents.
In addition to safety measures, authorities in the UAE also assured residents that loud sounds were due to thunder and lightning, during a time when regional tensions have been at a high.
With the unstable weather forecast expected until March 27, stay tuned to Khaleej Times to get all the latest updates on the developing weather situation.
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